Michigan

Nestled along the shore of Lake Huron in northeast Michigan is an area bursting with biodiversity. From the elusive dwarf lake iris to the federally listed endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly, the North Point Peninsula is a haven for a variety of species and habitats. 

Are lake whitefish returning to Michigan rivers to lay their eggs? These fisheries experts are looking to find out. Spend a day in the field with former TNC Conservation Fellow Alex Verdeja-Perez as she journeys in the rain and snow in search of lake whitefish—a crucial species for the biodiversity of the Great Lakes. 

Experts from Michigan, Wisconsin and New York recently traveled to New York’s Irondequoit Bay on Lake Ontario and to Buffalo, New York on Lake Erie to conduct aquatic invasive species (AIS) surveys. 

You might think we know everything there is to know about our Great Lakes—a focus of science and management for many years—but we still have a lot to learn. Especially underneath the surface. This is the case for Great Lakes reefs. 

A team of scientists at TNC are using data to connect people to nature and science. Learn how they selected social and economic indicators for coastal conservation to track progress toward our goals in Michigan. 

In the winter months, Michigan is often blanketed in snow. While we all bundle up in layers of warm clothing, trees are relying on their own layers to protect themselves from the chill. 

Have you heard of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI)? Bailey Conservation Fellow Matthew Jurjonas, Ph.D. explores his work researching the human well-being aspects of GLRI during this guest blog.